Launching soon!

Hey everyone!

It’s been a while since I’ve posted, but this is a big, long update. I apologize in advance, but it’s GOOD NEWS.

As those of you have been this page know, I’ve been working on a book series for a long time, and had used Amazon to self-publish my work. Last year, I was able to attract the attention of a publisher, Vulpine Publishing Group, based in the UK, and work out a deal with them to publish ‘The Phoenix Fallacy’. The exciting news is that Book 1, now known as ‘Mercenary’s Child’, is launching on August 30th!

That’s why I’m here, throwing myself upon the pyres of the internet. I wanted to announce this big date, and ask you to take a look at my book. I’ve prepared this FAQ for why you should care, and why I hope you’ll pick up a copy in pre-order (before August 30th):

1) What is ‘Mercenary’s Child’?
Previously known as ‘The Phoenix Fallacy: Book 1’, ‘Mercenary’s Child’ is the first part of a three part series of sci-fi books I originally wrote so that people of all types could enjoy science fiction, even those who don’t normally enjoy the genre. It’s been a long journey to get here, but a lot of positive reviews suggest it is worth a read.

2) I’ve already read it! I loved/hated/felt indifferently about it.
Honestly, I think it is worthwhile to read it again. I’ve been working with a tremendous editor (Adam Dove) who has helped me improve the storytelling, pacing, character development, action – the whole nine yards. It really is a much better book. And the rest of the trilogy will be getting the same treatment!

3) I don’t like sci-fi!
I consider that to be unfortunate in general, but there’s no accounting for taste! But seriously, as I said above, I originally wanted this to be a gateway for those who don’t like sci-fi to discover an incredible world of amazing authors and stories. It has certainly evolved well beyond that, but even the most fantastical elements of my stories have a grounding in reality. I spent a long time thinking about why each piece of the world existed, and why characters interact as they do. And I tried to make characters my focus first, as ultimately, sci-fi is really about things that impact (or will impact) the human condition. If that doesn’t convince you, well… I can beg. I’ll do it.

4) Why pre-order?
Well, pre-orders can often define how book sales develop (not always, but frequently). A lot of early pre-orders can help make a book pop in the charts (Good reviews help as well!). Early sales can help justify larger runs, and more effort by vendors to sell more copies. Since this is the first book in the series, it is especially important! If you have any interest in the book, or just like my ugly mug, I would really appreciate you picking up a copy, and I humbly request your patronage.

5) Can I get a physical copy?
Yes! Paperbacks are also releasing on the 30th!

6) Will it be in bookstores?
Yes! I just don’t know where yet… with Vulpine being UK based, it may start in the UK, and expand out based on sales, however it will be available online (link below). Vulpine is still figuring out details. I apologize in advance for the many posts coming this month, but I’ll let you know as I learn more.

7) Is that the same cover?
Mostly! The updated art by Dani Fernandez was just so good that it was hard to beat, though there are obviously a few differences.

8) Can I share this news with family and friends?
OK, so you really didn’t ask that one. But yes, of course! With one exception – I haven’t actually mentioned this to my parents yet. I’m secretly hoping that at some point I can walk them into a bookstore near their house and have them discover it for sale. I don’t know if that will happen, but for now, I’m keeping them in the dark (they don’t use social media or check the site). Everyone else is fair game though!

Thanks again for all your support. Many of you have played a role in the development of this book, whether you know it or not! I know that is a bit of a tease, but I mean it in the best of ways. I hope that you pick up the book and love it as much as I do!

Happy reading!
Jon